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5. Students want skills and credentials—faculty need support

Our research shows

 

The future of education lies in flexibility. As students pursue practical, skills-based learning pathways, institutions must integrate AI to deliver personalisation at scale—while ensuring faculty remain the trusted guides in that process.

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89% of learners seek flexible, career-aligned credentials.

  • Faculty worry about losing human connection but acknowledge AI’s value for personalisation and efficiency.

  • Institutions are increasingly aligning digital learning programs with workforce needs, offering modular, stackable credentials that integrate AI-powered feedback and analytics.

“I am not excited about AI in education. We are already losing the benefits of human relationships.”

“I’m concerned that AI will replace critical thinking skills.”

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Actions to consider

  • Use AI tools to design competency-based and modular programs.
  • Align LMS data analytics with skills tracking and employability frameworks.
  • Partner with industry to co-design credential pathways linked to labour market trends.
  • Support faculty in co-creating AI-enabled microcredential and lifelong learning models.
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Key takeaway

AI can bridge the gap between learning and work. Institutions that empower faculty to co-design these pathways will meet the growing demand for flexibility, skills, and human connection.